At what age should a child start guitar studies?

The guitar can be a very tough instrument for a student to learn, even more so when that student is very young. The posture required to play the instrument, along with the pressing down on metal strings, can be very hard for young kids to do. However, for a student that is committed, these are things that can, and will, be overcome with time and practice.

The age of six is a good general time for a new young student to start guitar studies. Children this age already have good motor skills and are big enough to handle the instrument. Younger students may not be big enough to feel comfortable with the guitar, but exceptions can certainly be made. There are three main guitar sizes, 1/2 size, 3/4 size, and full size. The 1/2 size guitar is adequate for students this age. For students with a smaller body type, the classical guitar is recommended as it is usually smaller than a steel-string acoustic guitar.

Lessons with a qualified teacher are instrumental for young students as they are not savvy enough to figure the instrument out by themselves. Music reading and theory are usually part of their guitar studies to provide a full musical experience to the student.